Referees

There are many great referees throughout the world. However, high profile matches do give a referee an opportunity to demonstrate those skills that eventually transcend one from being an average referee to a truly great one. Good referees referee every chance they get, they keep up-to-date on rules changes, they attend seminars and clinics, they watch videos of matches, they seek feedback and advice of more experienced veterans, they strive for smoothness and consistency in their actions, and they welcome friendly, discreet, sincere discussions from colleagues on ways to improve. Rules should be reviewed on a regular basis and certainly just prior to a major competition. Hand gestures, body movements, and verbal commands should be rehearsed in front of a mirror. There is no end to learning or improvement. Perfection can never be fully attained, but must always be pursued.

Referees should lead a clean lifestyle similar to the athletes. Overeating and drinking should be avoided. Drugs or stimulants are prohibited. If in civilian clothes, referees should wear clothes that are suitable for a professional businessperson. When in uniform, the uniform should be clean, pressed, in good repair, and have all required patches and striping.